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SeaWorld Orlando is one of the big three theme parks in Orlando, Florida, along with Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort. It's often a little less crowded and overwhelming than those attractions. But it's still best to know what you're getting into, so you can arrive properly prepared for a smooth, satisfying visit.

It's Largely About the Live Shows

While all the Orlando theme parks have live shows, only at SeaWorld are the live shows generally considered the biggest draw. SeaWorld is notably lighter on rides than other parks, and its shows are both educational and entertaining. But it's not "edutainment," because we don't use that sort of language around here. Two live animal shows feature the famous Shamu, now a catch-all name for all SeaWorld orcas: "One Ocean" and "Ocean Discovery." Note, though, that SeaWorld has decided to phase out its killer whale shows, having already done so in California and with plans in place to end them in Florida and Texas in 2019. You can also enjoy the dolphin show, "Dolphin Days"; the sea lion and walrus show called "Clyde and Seamore's Sea Lion High"; or the indoor "Pets Ahoy," which is made up of a variety of small animals.

Seats at the shows―which run at scheduled times during the day―can fill up pretty quickly on weekends and other busy days. Check the show schedules ahead of time and decide which ones you want to see, especially if you only have one day at the park. Show up 20 or so minutes early to get a seat. Guests who don't mind paying about $30 more per person have the option to upgrade to "Quick Queue" express passes that also come with reserved show seating at most shows.

But the Rides Are Great, Too

SeaWorld Orlando has three roller coasters for thrill-ride enthusiasts. Kraken Unleashed is a floorless coaster that goes over 150 feet high; in Manta, riders go for a ride that mimics the motions of a swimming manta ray; and the newest, Mako, is the fastest, tallest and longest roller coaster in Orlando, reaching speeds up to 73 mph and a maximum height of 200 feet. For the best shot at the shortest lines for coasters, go early in the morning or toward closing time; the masses tend to be dispersed at live shows from later in the morning through the afternoon.

You'll get wet riding Infinity Falls and Journey to Atlantis. And, among other rides, there's also a play area for smaller children called Shamu's Happy Harbor. It includes a variety of kiddie rides, a four-story net climb and a splash pad that's perfect for letting the little ones cool off. Remember to bring water shoes, a bathing suit and a towel for the kids.

It's Easy to Get Lost

The navigation at SeaWorld Orlando is a bit less intuitive and more confusing than most of the other parks in the area. That's what park maps are for. Grab one on the way in, and take a few minutes to figure out where you're going and when. Locate the theaters where they put on the shows you want to see, the not-to-be-missed rides, and the animal experiences of interest (such as Dolphin Cove, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, Manta Aquarium, TurtleTrek, Stingray Lagoon and all the others). Like the live shows, the animal experiences are a huge part of what makes SeaWorld special. Guests have the option to buy special tours of some of the animal experiences, too, which is a memorable part of the trip for kids and adults alike. Anyway, hang on to the map; it comes in handy while wending and winding your way through the park.

You Will Get Wet (if You Want), and It Will Be Hot

A day at SeaWorld is more enjoyable when you're prepared for it. Live animal shows have "splash zones" up-front where the audience tends to get wet, plus there are a few water rides. Fast-drying clothing is nice, and if it's a light-colored and breathable fabric, that goes a long way toward staying cool. It's basically all direct sunlight while walking around the park, so wearing sun protection like sunblock, a brimmed hat and sunglasses is a good idea. And visiting the park requires a good amount of walking, so opt for comfy footwear.

And while you can count on heat most of the year in Central Florida, be prepared to get cold too. Some of the animal habitats and indoor theaters are really cold, like, Antarctica cold even. Visitors who are bothered by low temperatures should bring a sweater or light coat along.

Other SeaWorld Parks

SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, Inc. operate more than just SeaWorld Orlando. Right across the street from SeaWorld is Discovery Cove. It's a great place for dolphin lovers, and one of the best places to swim with dolphins in Florida. Aquatica, SeaWorld's water park, is also just a little over a mile away. And tourists with the time and inclination to journey to Tampa, Florida, can visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, another SeaWorld property that's particularly appealing to roller-coaster fiends and animal lovers. SeaWorld even runs a free shuttle to Busch Gardens from several locations around Orlando; details and reservations are available through SeaWorld's guest services department. Be sure to check the SeaWorld website for package deals on tickets to multiple parks to save some cash.